Pakistan Navy to Induct First Chinese-Built Submarine in 2026 as $5 Billion Deal Advances

Pakistan’s Navy will commission its first Chinese-designed Hangor-class submarine into active service next year, a milestone in a multibillion-dollar defense partnership with Beijing aimed at strengthening Islamabad’s maritime reach in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.

Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Pakistan’s naval chief, confirmed that the $5 billion agreement for eight submarines is “progressing smoothly” and on track for completion by 2028. The first four diesel-electric attack submarines are being constructed in China, while the remaining four will be assembled in Pakistan to enhance local shipbuilding and technical expertise.

Three of the vessels have already been launched into the Yangtze River from a shipyard in Hubei province, marking visible progress in the program. Once operational, the submarines are expected to significantly expand Pakistan’s ability to patrol strategic waters and counter India’s growing naval presence.

The submarine deal comes months after Pakistan’s air force used Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets to shoot down an Indian Air Force Rafale, a French-built aircraft. The incident surprised many in defense circles and fueled debate over whether Chinese platforms can rival or even outperform Western systems in South Asia’s contested skies and seas.

Admiral Ashraf praised Chinese defense technology, calling it “reliable, technologically advanced and well-suited to Pakistan Navy’s operational requirements.” He also highlighted the growing importance of unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and advanced electronic warfare, noting that Pakistan is exploring deeper collaboration with China in these emerging fields.

The Hangor-class program underscores Beijing’s role as Islamabad’s primary defense supplier. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Pakistan accounted for more than 60 percent of China’s arms exports between 2020 and 2024, cementing its position as Beijing’s top overseas customer.

For Pakistan, the submarines represent not only a boost in naval firepower but also a step toward greater self-reliance in defense production. For China, the deal strengthens its strategic foothold in the Indian Ocean and bolsters its influence in South Asia, where competition with India remains intense.